Calgary police have launched a public appeal for information following a frightening attempted kidnapping that targeted a family of four in the mountain town of Banff earlier this month. The incident has shaken the community and prompted a joint investigation with local RCMP.
Details of the Banff Christmas Market Incident
The alarming event took place on Friday, December 13, at approximately 5:00 p.m. The family was leaving the popular Banff Christmas Market, located near 327 Railway Avenue, and was walking to their vehicle when they were confronted.
According to a news release issued by the Calgary Police Service on December 31, several masked individuals accosted the family and attempted to force the 44-year-old father into a waiting vehicle. The brazen attack occurred in a public area as evening fell.
Suspects Flee the Scene in Two Vehicles
The attempted abduction was unsuccessful. After failing to seize the man, the assailants quickly fled the area. Police reports indicate the suspects used two vehicles to escape: a dark sedan and a truck.
The shaken family returned to Calgary following the incident and subsequently reported the crime to the Calgary Police Service. The investigation is ongoing, with police working to piece together the events and identify the perpetrators.
How the Public Can Assist the Investigation
Law enforcement is urging anyone who may have witnessed the event or has relevant information to come forward. This includes individuals who were in the vicinity of the Banff Christmas Market or Railway Avenue on the evening of December 13.
Authorities are specifically interested in:
- Eyewitness accounts.
- Dashcam or security footage from the area.
- Photos or videos taken around the time of the incident.
- Any other information that could aid the investigation.
Contacts for tips are as follows:
Calgary Police Service: 403-266-1234
Banff RCMP Detachment: 403-763-6600
For those wishing to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477, using the P3 Tips app, or visiting the website calgarycrimestoppers.org.
The appeal underscores the importance of community assistance in solving such serious crimes and ensuring public safety in Alberta's iconic tourist destination.
